Stephen Watts: Redmont Distilling Co.

Redmont Distilling Company is Birmingham’s first distillery since prohibition. Operating out of Lakeview, the small crew of Stephen Watts, Jonathan Guidry, and Jake Hendon officially launched their Redmont Vodka in February 2016, and then four months later released their Redmont Alabama Cotton Gin, which is available throughout the state.

We asked Stephen Watts a few questions about his company, his hang-outs, and what he hopes for Lakeview.

Why spirits?

We love spirits. We’re big fans of beer, wine, and other types of beverages, but spirits are our favorite thing to taste and enjoy (always in moderation!).

What is your favorite cocktail?

My single favorite cocktail is a Gin & Tonic. Or a Tom Collins. Or maybe a Basil Gimlet. Really anything with gin sounds good most of the time.

What’s your go-to spot in Lakeview?

I’m a regular at most spots in Lakeview, but none more so than Lou’s Pub. Mike and the staff at Lou’s are great folks, and the community they foster is like nothing else in the city.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I’m an occasionalFinebaum caller, still going by my handle Steve from Big Sur which I’ve used on the Finebaum show since the days I was living in Big Sur, CA.

Complete this sentence: If I were the Mayor of Lakeview…

I would focus efforts on bringing more retail to the neighborhood. Shops like Urban Outfitters and REI would do quite well in the district.